As far as determining the exact RPM it starts to charge you could do this:
attach a dwell/tach to the engine and also connect a voltmeter to the battery post of the starter (or any other "hot" spot in the system). Slowly increase engine speed while watching the voltmeter, when you see a slight jump in voltage (like say from 12.5 volts to 13.5 or so) you have your answer.